Fire

A fire is as important as a safe water supply, because of its many uses:

* Boiling water to kill pathogens
* Cooking food, including wild-caught fish and game
* Staying warm, particularly when wet
* Repelling dangerous animals and certain insects (e.g. mosquitoes)
* Provides a sense of companionship and morale boost
* Signaling to rescuers (bright at night, smoky by day)

The area chosen should be flat and dry, with protection from wind.